In a recent viral exchange on Reddit, a potential sitter and a mother of three engaged in a conversation that has sparked widespread discussion about babysitter wages. This interaction highlights common justifications that parents often provide for low pay in the childcare sector.
Understanding Babysitting Rates
Determining an appropriate rate for babysitting can be complex, influenced by various factors such as geographical location, the number of children, the sitter’s experience, and specific job requirements. A survey from Care.com indicates that nannies typically earn around $15 per hour for one child, while Urbansitter reports that the average pay for caring for two children can exceed $21 in certain areas. However, one particular mother believes that offering $8 per hour for her three toddlers, who are not yet potty trained, is more than enough.
The Exchange
The exchange began when the mother reached out to the babysitter’s ad for a last-minute job. The babysitter inquired about the ages of the children and the hours required. The mother disclosed that she had twin 3.5-year-olds and a 2-year-old, an indication that the job would likely be demanding. The mother then informed the babysitter that none of the children were potty trained but suggested that she could “work on it” during her time there.
When the sitter quoted a rate of $15 per hour for three toddlers, the mother promptly countered, stating that she had never paid more than $8 per hour in the past. Despite the sitter’s polite insistence on her rate, the mother felt justified in her low offer, arguing that her children were “very well-behaved” and would be sleeping for most of the evening. She even reminisced about her own babysitting days when she earned just $10 a night, urging the sitter to “be gratef[ul].”
Community Response
This post was shared in the subreddit “Choosing Beggars,” a space dedicated to highlighting unreasonable requests and expectations. The babysitter, who initially shared the story, remarked that any individual with experience in childcare would recognize the absurdity of the mother’s request. The overwhelming response from the Reddit community was in favor of the babysitter, with little sympathy for the mother’s stance.
Finding Fair Babysitting Rates
For those unsure about current babysitting rates, several approaches can be taken. Parents can consult with peers about their sitter compensation, participate in babysitting groups on social media, or conduct online research for more information.
Conclusion
In summary, this exchange encapsulates the challenges faced by sitters in negotiating fair wages and sheds light on the broader issue of undervaluing childcare providers. Additionally, for more insights on topics related to home insemination, visit our other blog post here. If you’re looking for reliable products for home insemination, consider checking out Cryobaby’s home intracervical insemination syringe kit combo. For comprehensive resources on infertility and pregnancy, the Mount Sinai Health Library is an excellent reference.
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